redLikely to cause
orangeCan cause
yellowMay cause

Sodium hydroxide

CAS: 1310-73-2

How can this chemical affect my health?

Acute (Short Term) Effects

Toxic To Humans & Animals, priority yellow
Toxic to Humans & Animals – Toxicity or fatality on contact, ingestion or inhalation to humans and other mammals.
Skin Irritation, priority orange
Skin Irritation – Irritation or serious damage to the skin.
Eye Irritation, priority orange
Eye Irritation – Irritation or serious damage to the eyes.

Chronic (Long Term) Effects

Other Health Effects, priority orange
Other Health Effects – Can cause serious damage on contact or ingestion.

Inherent Hazards

Reactive, priority yellow
Reactive – May spontaneously ignite or explode on its own or in contact with water.
Restricted List, priority blue
Restricted List – This chemical is on a list from an authoritative body recommending that its use be avoided.

How does this chemical impact the environment?

Persistent, priority red
Persistent – Does not break down readily from natural processes.
Acute Harm To Aquatic Ecosystems, priority yellow
Acute Harm to Aquatic Ecosystems – Biological harm or possible death to fish or other aquatic organisms following a single exposure.

What safer alternatives are available for this chemical?

Find case studies related to substitutions for this chemical in SubsPORT, the substitution support portal.

How am I likely to be exposed to this chemical?

Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
Skin contact

How can I protect myself from exposure to this chemical in the workplace?

gloves
Handle with gloves
suit
Protective clothing